How to Become a Paraeducator [Educational Guide]

If you are interested in working in the paraeducating field of education with students in need of support, becoming a paraeducator is a good choice. Paraeducators are valuable teachers of the educational team that can have a positive impression on the learning environment and the student.

A Para-educator has many responsibilities, such as directing students and their families to available resources to help them learn and grow. Good paraeducators must have patience since they work with special education.

What Does A Paraeducator Do?

A para-educator provides additional training and support to educate students outside or inside the classroom setting. They are also called paraprofessional educators, other words or teaching assistants who are inspired or expected to support teachers in small group activities. 

Paraeducators spend most of the time helping the student to learn, so a good paraeducator will use their knowledge of education and learning techniques to communicate clearly with them. And get the important points of a class across.

They often work with special children. They must be able to understand their needs and work well together.

How Do I Become A Paraeducator?

Are you considering becoming a para-educator? Find out how to become a Para-educator, what skills you will need, how to advance in your career and get promoted, and how much you can expect at each step.

Suppose you are considering becoming a para-educator career path. So, it’s essential to point out the skills, and qualifications. And the time needed to start a professional paraeducator and how to up your career path. Follow these are the below steps ordinary required to begin and advance your Para-educator career.

·        Earn A High School Diploma

Paraeducators must hold a high school diploma or GED to be qualified for para educator positions. 

·        Earn a Bachelor’s Degree    

Earn get a two-year associate’s degree or 60 hours of college credit. Along with the high school diploma, many title 1 schools will ask you for at least two years toward a bachelor’s degree in education or a two-year associate’s degree  

·        Parapro District Test     

You must complete the district-administered assessment test. All paraeducators must pass the instructional assessment teaching assistant skills test, which estimates abilities in math, English, reading, and more. But every school district will have assessment guidelines and standards that paraeducators must meet.

·        Paraeducator Certificate Course

To get a para-educator Certification, you must complete the following three courses in order:    

1. Course I Introduction/Foundation
2. Course II Instructional Support
3. Course III Behavioral Supports

These Paraeducator Generalist Certification courses involve virtual meetings and the completion of online units. Participants must have access to a computer and the Internet to complete these courses. 

You can get this certification through the American Education Association or a community college near you. Para-educator is the final step to achieving a certificate and entering the classroom as a paraeducator.

Education Career Path Paraeducator

If you’re interested in being a para-educator, this career as a teacher may be a great way to progress in your chosen field.

When you move on in your career, you may take on more responsibilities or notice that you’ve taken on a leadership role. A para educator can use our career map to determine their career goals through career progression. For Example, They could start with a role such as certified nursing assistant, progress to a title such as a team leader, and eventually end up with the title principal.

Average Salary For A Paraeducator

In the United States, on average, special paraeducators make $32,092 per year or $15.43 per hour. However, special education paraeducators on the lower end of that spectrum, the bottom 10%, make roughly $25,000 a year, while the top 10% make $39,000.

Conclusion

Becoming a paraeducator is an excellent way to make a difference in the lives of children. You can become a successful para-educator by obtaining the necessary educational qualifications, gaining experience, and completing relevant training courses. With dedication and hard work, you can enjoy this rewarding career helping students reach their goals.